LONDON (AFX) - The UK Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply reported that its service sector Business Activity index fell to a seasonally adjusted 51.2 in April from a downwardly revised 55.7 the previous month, according to market sources. The following table provides a breakdown of the results of the CIPS' latest survey. A reading above 50 signals expansion; below it contraction. The greater the divergence the more rapid the rate of change.
All figures, with the exception of business expectations, are seasonally adjusted.
April March Feb
Business activity 51.2 55.7 57.1
New business 51.1 56.0 57.7
Outstanding business 48.3 51.8
Business expectations71.2 75.2
Employment 51.6 53.9 54.0
Prices charged 51.9 51.1 52.9
Input prices 56.9 56.0 57.5